Tropical Storm Rachel Continues West-Northwestward Parallel to Southwestern Mexico Coast; Tropical Storm Warning in Effect

Tropical Storm Rachel is located near 14.5N 103.7W, about 300 miles WSW of Acapulco, Mexico, moving west-northwest at 12 mph (19 km/h). Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph (95 km/h) with higher gusts. Gradual strengthening is expected, and Rachel is forecast to become a hurricane during the next few days. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the coast of southwestern Mexico from Punta San Telmo to Playa Perula, and a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect north of Playa Perula to Cabo Corrientes.